Sustained media attention combined with high-profile incidents, have prompted the view among the Australian public that violent crime is increasing. Trends in violent crime reported to police since the early 1990s however, reveal a mixed story.

Using data from the Drug Use Monitoring in Australia program, this paper examines the prevalence of drug driving among a sample of police detainees in 2005 and 2006. It found that two-thirds had driven after using drugs and/or alcohol in the previous 12 months, which is significantly higher than the incidence of drug driving in...

This report outlines the diversion programs currently operating for Indigenous offenders. Access to diversion programs and barriers to participation and completion determine the effectiveness of programs. Other issues raised relate to the expansion of programs for participants and support services to cover drugs outside the scope of current diversion programs, wider and clearer dissemination of...

This paper examines the causes of wrongful imprisonment, the nature of losses and the applicability of international approaches and conventions. Definitions of wrongful conviction vary internationally, as do the circumstances and amount of compensation. Australian states and territories can make discretionary ex gratia payments, although determination of compensation amounts is unclear. Compensation levels for wrongful...

The Australian aquaculture and fisheries industry is worth over $2 billion annually, and supports numerous communities across the country. This report presents the results of research, funded by the Australian Government Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry, that sought to investigate the extent of illegal activity in Australia's fishing industry and the threat posed by...